Can see flash drive, but unable to access

HELP! I did read the Flash drive recovery post and it's not looking good for me but would like some input if anyone can help....

The issue: Using a 8gb USB flash drive and I'm unable to access the files. I am able to see it as a removable device - however the name is now "removable device" as opposed to the actual name - I can see in the properties the storage capacity and what is left - but it says "this folder is empty"?

Did I somehow screw this thing up? Is there a way to get my files back?

I've got a 32gb Sony Microvault, doing all the same. I've tried HP's utilities, Sandisk, Partition Assistant...the list goes on and on. Windows 7 (ultimate 64, if it helps) sees the drive, but even with admin privileges, I can't do anything to the drive - it seems like it lost its partition, but there's nothing I can do to get it back. "Can't open volume for direct access." I don't even care about the files on it, I'd just like to get more than a month of use out of my little drive.